Scott - I performed inspections for the HUD REAC (Real Estate Assessment Center) through a contractor for three years (late 90's, early 2000). I am in rural NC and was asked to travel in multiple locations including ND, KY, AL and a two week trip starting in coastal VA up to Philly and then back down the DelMarVa peninsula. When I decided to stop contracting to do these inspections there was a program being initiated which was called a "reverse auction" where the person / contractor bidding the lowest to perform the inspections was awarded a contract. Where I live, and accounting for the travel, this became a liability rather than an asset.

Having said this if, IF, you can remain in your home state, especially in the larger metropolitan areas, you may be able to make good money. Be warned, though, that the training is extensive, you will be audited once or twice a year (or more - not fun), and the pay is not per unit (unless there has been a change), but per property inspected. The number of units inspected per property is (again, may have changed) determined on a sliding scale depending on the total number of units in a specific property. At the time I was inspecting no one, by REAC directive, could inspect more than two properties a day. And that was often a stretch. Fees at the time I was inspecting were generally in the $175 - $240 range per property depending on the contractor and the accepted bid. Again, my experience with REAC was several years ago and there may have been significant changes. I suggest that you research the HUD / REAC website, Real Estate Assessment Center (REAC) - HUD for information. There are phone numbers available if you have additional questions.

Jim McMillan
HRI, Inc.

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